[url=http://www.livedaily.com/news/13719.html]Celtic Thunder rolls across the US[/url]

The new, all-male Irish music ensemble Celtic Thunder will be introduced to US audiences with a four-pronged attack: CD, DVD, nationwide stint on public television and fall tour.

The new group, created by Sharon Browne, comprises five male vocalists ranging in age from 14 to 40. Browne said the concept was to feature a diverse lineup of "real men" from Ireland and Scotland.

"The guys--Damien McGinty, Keith Harkin, Ryan Kelly, Paul Byrom and George Donaldson--are a real range of Celts," she explained in a statement. "These men are good-looking in a not-too-pretty way, strong, silent, quietly powerful, and just a little threatening. There are enough boy bands out there--it's time for some real men!"

Celtic Thunder, which recently changed its name from Celtic Man, will launch a 50-date tour in October to support its forthcoming CD and DVD, which are due March 4. The outing is set to start Oct. 3 in Binghamton, NY, and travel across the US through mid-December, with a stop in Toronto along the way.

The group's self-titled CD and DVD sets feature a live performance filmed in Dublin last August. The concert includes a mix of songs ranging from the traditional "Mountains of Mourne" and "Come By the Hills" to hits such as "Brothers in Arms" and "Desperado." The performance also features original compositions by Celtic Thunder's Grammy-nominated musical director, Phil Coulter, who has written hits for Elvis Presley and the Bay City Rollers, and performed with Van Morrison, Tom Jones, and The Rolling Stones, according to a statement.

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